Antenna Guide for
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz
H Aironet
Wireless Communication Inc.
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any means, electronic or
mechanical, for any purpose, without the written permission ofAironet®. Information in this
document is subject to change without notice. Aironet® makes no representation or
warranties with respect to the contents of this manual and specifically disclaims any express
or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
© 1997 AIRONET® All rights reserved.
ARLAN® & AIRONET® are a trademark of AIRONET® Wireless Communication Inc.
Printed in USA
Doc 710-003725 Rev. A8
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
REVISION TABLE
1) Add Articulating Mount
5/16/96
2) Add 23 dBi Parabolic Grid Dish
8/26/96
3) Add 900 & 2.4 antenna calculations.
9/6/96
4) Add 21 dBi Parabolic Solid Dish
3/19/97
5) Add 8.5 Patch Antenna
3/27/97
6) Add Diversity Antennas
3/31/97
7) Add 11 dBi Omni & 1/4 wave Monopole
4/11/97
8) Add International Antennas
4/11/97
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Revision Table
3
Overview
5
Selecting the Proper System
6
Selecting the Proper Antenna
6
Redundancy
7
Physical Environments
9
Building Construction
9
Types of Antennas
12
Omni-Directional
12
Directional
13
Antenna Placement
14
Cabling
14
Connectors
15
Mounting Hardware
15
Lightning Arrestors
16
FCC/DOC regulations Update
17
Background
17
Regulations Summary
18
Impact in Existing Installations
19
Aironet® and Approvals
19
Impact on International Installations
19
Product Descriptions
20
Antennas
20
900MHz Antennas Part nos.
20
2.4GHz Antennas Part nos.
21
2.4GHz Diversity & International Antennas Part nos.
22
Antenna Physical Description
23 - 29
Cabling
30
Antenna Calculations
31
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
OVERVIEW
Each ARLAN® radio product is designed to perform
in a variety of environments.
Coverage and
performance can be greatly affected by the
implementation of the antenna system. To optimize
the overall performance of an Aironet® wireless
LAN, it is important to understand how to maximize
radio coverage with the appropriate antenna selection
and placement. An antenna system is comprised of a
number of components including:
the antenna,
mounting hardware, connectors, antenna cabling, and
in some cases a Lightning Arrester.
This document is intended to provide assistance in the
design and implementation of an ARLAN® wireless network backbone. For additional
consultation, please contact your authorized Aironet® reseller. Aironet® resellers can
provide on-site engineering assistance for complex requirements.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
900MHZ OR 2.4GHZ- SELECTING THE PROPER SYSTEM .
Deciding on which system to use can involve many decisions. The table below outlines the
major differences between the 900MHz and 2.4GHz systems. A decision can be made
depending on the requirements for your system.
900MHz
2.4GHz
Maximum Distance (line of sight)
with directional high-gain antennas
Maximum Distance (line of sight)
with Parabolic Dish antennas
6 miles @ 860 Kbps
4 miles @ 2 Mbps
No 900 Mhz dish
Maximum RF Datarate
860 Kbps
Approvals
North & South America,
Australia, ETSI other
selected countries
6 miles @ 4 Mbps
12 miles @ 2 Mbps
25 miles @ 1 Mbps
2 Mbps (BR2000-E)
4 Mbps (BR2040-E)
Designed to meet
worldwide regulations
SELECTING THE PROPER ANTENNA SYSTEM
Before the physical environment is examined, it is critical to identify the mobility of the
application, the means for coverage and system redundancy. An application such as point-topoint bridging which connects two or more stationary users may be best served by a highly
directional antenna, while a mobile user will generally require a number of omni-directional
microcells. These individual microcells can be linked together seamlessly via the wired LAN
infrastructure or by using the wireless repeater functionality built into everyARLAN® access
point. All ARLAN® products are designed to support complex multicell environments
transparently through our patented ARLAN® MicroCellular Architecture.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
REDUNDANCY
The issue of system redundancy is often a function of the mission critical nature of the
application. In radio networks, redundancy can usually be expressed as a percentage. Two
types of redundancy should be considered:
•
•
coverage redundancy and
system redundancy.
COVERAGE REDUNDANCY can be built into a system by placing access points and antennas in
positions where they will cover a primary area and a portion of an adjacent area (see figure
below). Each access point is configured with the same radio channel. This will ensure
coverage should the adjacent access point fail. In areas of redundant coverage, radio traffic
load is dynamically balanced between access points.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
SYSTEM REDUNDANCY involves installing additional alternate access points that will take over
if the primary access point fails. (see figure below). In this case, it is often practical to
configure each access point within a microcell on a different channel. For example, if the
primary access point in microcell #1 fails, the mobile user can be configured to dynamically
change to the secondary channel used by the secondary access point in that cell. As a result, a
fault tolerant system can be designed.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Once the mobility and redundancy
issues are resolved, the physical
environment must be examined.
While the area of coverage is the most
important determining factor for
antenna selection, it is not the sole
decision
criteria.
Building
construction, ceiling height, and
internal
obstructions
must
be
considered.
Cement
and
steel
construction have different radio
propagation characteristics. Internal
obstructions such as product inventory and racking in warehousing environments are factors.
In outdoor environments, many objects can affect antenna patterns, like trees, vehicles,
buildings or trains, to name a few.
At 2.4 GHz these objects will have a much larger effect on the coverage as compared with
900MHz.
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
The density of the materials used in a building’s construction determines the number of walls
the RF signal can pass through and still maintain adequate coverage:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Paper and Vinyl walls have very little affect on signal penetration.
Solid and pre-cast concrete walls limit signal penetration to one or two walls without
degrading coverage.
Concrete and concrete block walls limit signal penetration to three or four walls.
Wood or drywall allows for adequate penetration of five or six walls.
A thick metal wall causes signals to reflect off, resulting in poor penetration.
Chain link fence , wire mesh with 1 - 1½ spacing acts as a ½ λ (½ wave) that will
block a 2.4 Ghz signal.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Recommendations for five common installation environments are outlined below:
Warehousing/Manufacturing —In
most
cases,
these
installations require a large coverage area. Experience has
shown that the 5.2 dBi omni-directional antenna mounted just
below the ceiling girders typically provides 50,000 to 75,000
square feet of coverage at 900MHz and 25,000 to 35,000 square feet of coverage at 2.4GHz
(this number will vary with stocking, type of material and building construction). The
antenna should be placed in the center of the desired coverage cell and in an open area for
best performance. In cases where the radio unit will be located against a wall, a directional
antenna such as a Patch or Yagi can be used for better penetration of the area. The coverage
angle of the antenna will affect the coverage area.
Office/Small Retail — The standard dipole may provide adequate coverage in
these areas depending upon the location of the radio device. However, in a
back corner office the magnetic mount omni-directional antenna may provide
better coverage. This antenna can be attached to a file cabinet or other metal
structure in an unobstructed area. Additional cable can be added to the
antenna, and it may be hung from the ceiling for better performance. Coverage of this antenna
depends upon the surrounding environment, but experience shows coverage of a 20,000 to
50,000 sq. feet at 900MHz and 10,000 to 25,000 sq. feet of coverage at 2.4GHz area can
usually be obtained in normal office environments
Large Retail— In most cases, these installations require a large
coverage area. Experience has shown that the 5.2 dBi omnidirectional antenna mounted just below the ceiling girders typically
provides 50,000 to 75,000 square feet of coverage at 900MHz and
25,000 to 35,000 square feet of coverage at 2.4GHz (this number will vary with stocking, type
of material and building construction). The antenna should be placed in the center of the
desired coverage cell and in an open area for best performance. In cases where the radio unit
will be located in a corner, a directional antenna such as aPatch or Yagi can be used for better
penetration of the area. The coverage angle of the antenna will affect the coverage area.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Point-to-Point— When connecting two points together (such as an
Ethernet bridge) the distance, obstructions and antenna location must be
considered. If the antennas can be mounted indoors and the distance is
very short (several hundred feet), the standard dipole or magnetic
mount 5.2 dBi omni-directional or Yagi antenna must be used. For very
long distances (1/2 mi. or more) directional high gain antennas must be
used. These antennas should be as high as possible, and above
obstructions such as trees, buildings, etc.; and if the directional antennas are used, they must
be aligned so their main radiated power lobes are directed at each other. With a line of site
configuration and the Yagi antennas, distances of up to 6 miles can be achieved at 900MHz
and distance of up to 25 miles at 2.4GHz can be reached using Parabolic Dish Antennas,
providing a clear line of site is maintained.
Point-to-Multipoint Bridge —In this case (a single point is
communicating to several remote points) the use of anhigh gain (12
dBi) omni-directional antenna at the main communication point
should be considered. The remote sites can use a directional antenna
that is directed at the main point antenna.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
TYPE OF ANTENNAS :
Aironet® offers several different styles of antennas for use in the 900MHz and 2.4GHz
ranges. Every antenna offered for sale has beenFCC approved for use by Aironet®.
Each type of antenna will offer different coverage capabilities. As the gain of an antenna
goes up, there is some tradeoff to its coverage area. Usually gain antennas offer longer
coverage distances, but only in a certain direction. The radiation patterns below will help to
show the coverage areas of the styles of antennas that we offer, Omni directional, Yagisand
Patch antennas.
Omni Directional Antennas- An
omni-directional
antenna
is
designed to provide a 360 degree
radiation pattern. This type of
antenna is used when coverage in
all directions from the antenna is
required. The standard 2.15 dBi
“Rubber Duck” is one style of an
omni-directional antenna.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Directional Antennas- Directional
antennas come in many different
styles and shapes. An antenna does
not offer any added power to the
signal, but simply redirects the
energy it received from the
transmitter. By redirecting this
energy, it has the effect of providing
more energy in one direction, and
less energy in all other directions. As
the gain of a directional antenna
increases, the angle of radiation
usually decreases, providing a greater
coverage distance, but with a reduced
coverage angle.
Directional antennas include Yagis,
patch antennas and parabolic dishes.
Parabolic Dish’s have a very narrow
rf energy path and the installer must
be accurate in aiming these at each
other.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
ANTENNA PLACEMENT TIPS
To obtain maximum coverage from any antenna, follow these general tips:
•
•
•
•
•
Mount the antenna to utilize the propagation characteristics.
Keep antennas away from metal obstructions (heating and air-conditioning ducts, large
ceiling trusses, building superstructures and major power cabling runs). Use a rigid
conduit to lower the antenna away from these obstructions.
Use a directional antenna when connecting a link between two buildings.
Mount an omni-directional antenna in the middle of the desired coverage area when
possible.
Place the antenna as high as required, especially in an indoor environment, to ensure
your clients are well in the RF energy patterns.
TYPES OF CABLING
Antenna cable introduces losses in the antenna system on both
the transmitter and the receiver. As the length of cable increases
the frequency increases, so does the amount of loss introduced.
To operate at optimum efficiency, cable runs should be kept as
short as possible.
Interconnect Cable— Attached to all antennas (except the standard dipoles), this cable
provides a 50 Ohm impedance to the radio and antenna, with a very flexible connection
between the two items. It has a high loss factor and should not be used except for very short
connections (usually less than 10 feet). Typical length on all antennas is 36”.
Low Loss Cable— This cable provides a much lower loss factor than the interconnect cable,
and it is used when the antenna must be placed at any distance from the radio device. While
it is a low loss cable, it should still be kept to a minimum length. This cable is the only cable
type supplied by AIRONET® for mounting the antenna away from the radio unit. It is offered
in four different lengths with one RTNC plug and one RTNC jack connector attached. This
allows for connection to the radio unit and to the interconnect cable supplied on the antennas.
For 900MHz the recommended maximum cable run is 100 feet. Because the loss is much
greater at 2.4GHz, the maximum recommended cable length here is 50 feet.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
TYPES OF CONNECTORS
Connectors used on equipment manufactured after June 1994 must
be unique, nonstandard connectors (per FCC and DOC
regulations). Therefore, AIRONET® has developed a full range
of connectors known as Reverse-TNC (RTNC) connectors , and
Reverse-SMA (RSMA). While they are similar to the normal
connectors found on most cellular telephones, they cannot be
mated to the standard connectors. To ensure compatibility,
AIRONET® products, antennas and cabling must be used
together.
TYPES OF MOUNTING HARDWARE
Each antenna requires some type of mounting. The Standard antenna simply connects to the
RTNC or RSMA connector on the back of the unit. The Magnetic Mount antenna mount uses
a magnetic base to attach itself to any steel structure (a file cabinet, steel cross member of a
ceiling, etc.). In the case of a ceiling mount, the cable should be strain relieved to the ceiling
to prevent the antenna from falling if the magnetic attachment failed for any reason (vibration,
dirt, etc.).
•The 5.2 dBi Mast mount Omni and the Yagi antennas are designed to mount to a mast up to
11/2”, and each comes with mounting hardware for attachment.
•The 13.5 dBi Yagi for the 2.4 Ghz unit has a articulating mount option listed in the back of
this manual. For most indoor applications, 3/4” or 1” electrical conduit provides a suitable
mounting. For outdoor application, a heavy galvanized or aluminum wall mast should be
used.
•The Patch antennas are designed to mount flat against a wall or ceiling.
•Ceiling mount antennas (i.e. the 2.4GHz ceiling mount 5.2 dBi omni) are equipped with a
drop ceiling cross member attachment.
•The 21 dBi Parabolic Dish mounts to a 1 5/8 to a 2 3/8 mast. Fine threaded turnbuckles allow
accurate aiming of the antenna.
All antennas come with the Reverse Polarity TNC connector, or the reverse Polarity SMA
connector. Except for the magnetic mount products and standard dipoles, all other antennas
are equipped with a 36” coax feed line.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
LIGHTNING ARRESTERS
When using outdoor antenna installations, there is always the possibility of damage from
potential charges developing on the antenna and cable or surges induced from nearby
lightning strikes. The Aironet® Lightning Arrester is designed to protect radio equipment
from static electricity and lightning induced surges that travel on coaxial transmission lines.
The Lightning Arrester protects your equipment from surges up to 5,000 Amperes. This will
not prevent damage in the event of a direct lightning hit.
THEORY OF OPERATION:
The Aironet® Lightning Arrester prevents energy surges from reaching the RF equipment by
the shunting effect of the device. Surges are limited to less than 50 volts, in about .0000001
seconds (100 nano seconds). A typical lightning surge is about .000002 (2 microseconds).
The accepted IEEE transient (surge) suppression is .000008 seconds (8 microseconds).
The Lightning Arrester is a 50 ohm transmission line with a gas discharge tube positioned
between the center conductor and ground. This gas discharge tube changes from an open
circuit to a short circuit almost instantaneously in the presence of voltage and energy surges,
providing a path to ground for the energy surge.
INSTALLATION:
This Arrester is designed to be installed
between your outdoor antenna cable and the
Aironet® Wireless Spread Spectrum Radio
Device. Installation should be indoors, or
inside a protected area. A good ground must
be attached to the Arrester. This can be
accomplished by use of a ground lug attached
to the Arrester, and a heavy wire (#6 solid
copper) connecting the lug to a good earth
ground. See drawing.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
FCC AND DOC REGULATIONS UPDATE
BACKGROUND
In 1985, the FCC enacted standards for the commercial use of spread spectrum technology in
the ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) frequency bands. Spread spectrum is currently
allowed in the 900, 2400, and 5200 MHz bands.
In 1989, the FCC drafted an amendment governing spread spectrum systems in the unlicensed
ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band. This amendment is commonly referred to as
the “new” or “‘94” rules because it impacts all spread spectrum products manufactured after
June 23, 1994. Product manufactured before June 23, even if it was stocked for delivery after
June 23, is not affected by the amendment. This amendment was enacted into law by
Congress in 1990.
The FCC ‘94 rules are intended to discourage use of amplifiers, high-gain antennas or other
means of increasing RF radiation significantly. The rules are further intended to discourage
“home brew” systems which are installed by inexperienced users and which—either
accidentally or intentionally—do not comply with FCC regulations for use in the ISM band.
Both the original rules and the amendments sought to enable multiple RF networks to
“coexist” with minimum impact on one another by exploiting properties of spread spectrum
technology.
Fundamentally, the FCC ‘94 rules intend to limit RF communications in the ISM band to a
well defined region, while ensuring multiple systems can operate with minimum impact on
one another. These two needs are addressed by limiting the type and gain of antennas used
with a given system, and by requiring a greater degree of RF energy “spreading.”
The FCC ‘94 rules require direct sequence spread spectrum systems to maintain a power
spectral density below +8 dBm in any 3 KHz band. This requirement is intended to ensure
that spread spectrum systems spread RF energy over a wide band. Narrow band FM systems,
which do not have this capability, rely on a minimum spread of RF energy (well defined
power spectral density). This, in turn, minimizes the ability to share RF bandwidth. By
forcing direct sequence spread spectrum systems to maintain a low power spectral density, the
FCC is attempting to maximize the ability of “competing” systems to share RF bandwidth. A
complementary requirement—direct sequence systems must be capable of a 10 dB processing
gain—ensures systems are designed with enough “horsepower” to receive data transmitted
under the new regulations for energy spreading. Stated another way, this requirement is
intended to ensure direct sequence spread spectrum receivers exploit the technology’s
capability of extracting signals from background noise, since spread spectrum transmitters are
required to spread energy to a greater degree.
For frequency hopping spread spectrum systems, the FCC has mandated a minimum number
of discrete frequencies on which systems transmit, as well as a minimum distance between
successive transmissions. Further, the FCC ‘94 rules restrict frequency hopping systems to
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
400 milliseconds of transmission time on any channel in any 20-second interval. Again, the
goal is to spread the radio energy, thereby allowing competing systems to share the ISM band.
The FCC ‘94 requirements for hopping distance (number of KHz) between successive
transmissions increased the minimum distance from 25 KHz to 500 KHz. In layman’s terms,
this requirement ensures successive hops and their corresponding transmissions are nowhere
near one another, so they use more of the allotted band.
Of primary concern to users is the new requirement that manufacturers of spread spectrum
systems incorporate proprietary connectors on their products. This, in turn, restricts users to
antennas with the complementary connector. The requirement is placed on all manufacturers
of systems incorporating spread spectrum radios in the ISM band, regardless of the spread
spectrum technology employed. Previously, any antenna with less than a +10 dB gain could
be used with a spread spectrum system in the ISM band. The FCC ‘94 rules restrict antenna
gain to +6 dB. Further, manufacturers are required to have their systems tested and
approved with a given antenna before the system is offered for sale with that antenna. The
goal of this requirement is to ensure each antenna/transmitter combination conforms to
regulations. Typically, only “high-gain” antennas (at or near the +6 dB gain limit) will be
affected by this requirement.
REGULATION SUMMARY
Effective June 23, 1994, all Aironet® radio products are manufactured with a new and
proprietary antenna connector. This change (and some other less noticeable ones) have been
mandated by the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and impacts all
manufacturers of spread spectrum radio equipment who intend to sell their products in this
country. Apparently, the FCC is trying to discourage the use of high gain antennas and limit
the interference in the spread spectrum frequency bands.
Since the introduction of this rule by the FCC, The Department of Communications in Canada
(DOC) has also followed the FCC’s guidelines regarding the unique connector. All
concerning items for the FCC relate the DOC as well.
Prior to this rule change, Aironet® radio products were equipped with an off-the-shelf TNC
connector to which any number of third party antenna products could be attached. To comply
with the new rules, our products are fitted with a custom Reverse TNC (RTNC) connector, to
which only our antennas can be attached. We also offer complete cable assemblies with the
RTNC connectors installed, for separating the radio unit from the antenna.
Also changes by the new rules is the limitation on the antenna gain of a system. An antenna
with a maximum gain of 6 dBi can be used with a 1 watt (+30dBm) transmitter approved
under the new FCC and DOC rules. This provides for a maximum effective radiated power
(ERP) of +36dBm. If the gain of the antenna is increased, the power output of the transmitter
must be reduced by the same amount. (i.e. a 10 dB gain antenna limits transmitter power to
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
+26dBm). The 900MHz Aironet® products provide a +27.8dBm power output, limiting the
antenna to a maximum of 8.2 dBi gain, while the 2.4GHz products produce +20dBm transmit
power, allowing up to a 16 dBi gain antenna.
IMPACT ON EXISTING INSTALLATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
Systems already installed with TNC products, or higher gain antennas are not affected by
these new regulations. Even product which requires repair can remain fitted with the original
TNC connector and antennas.
If the product (i.e., access point of repeater) must be replaced or upgraded and the original
TNC antenna remains, Aironet® can provide an adapter cable to connect the new (RTNC)
connector to the existing (TNC) antenna cable. This adapter is called a RTNC to TNC adapter
cable. This cable can ONLY be ordered through Aironet®’s Customer Support department.
AIRONET® AND APPROVALS
Many different types of antennas in the 900MHz band and 2.4GHz band have been fitted with
the new RTNC connector, received FCC approval, and can be purchased fromAIRONET®.
They range in gain from the standard 2 dBi dipole to a 6 dBi directional Yagi. Please consult
an Aironet® systems engineer or authorized representative when selecting the proper
configuration. Aironet® will make every effort to support a wide variety of antennas. Also,
our volume purchasing power should result in better pricing for our partners.
IMPACT ON INTERNATIONAL INSTALLATIONS
Although the FCC and DOC have no jurisdiction in other countries, allAironet® products
will be shipped with the new RTNC connector. If you would like to use third party antennas,
an adapter cable which connects the RPTNC product to TNC antenna cable is available from
Aironet®. This cable cannot be shipped to a US or Canadian address.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS
900 MHZ ANTENNAS
430-001498
Standard Dipole
Standard “Rubber Duck” omni-directional dipole with 90° articulating mount. RP-TNC
connector.
#430-001702
8.2 dBi Yagi
High gain directional antenna for indoor or outdoor mast mounting. RP-TNC connector.
#430-001724
5.2 dBi Omni
High gain omni-directional antenna for indoor or outdoor—mast mounting. RP-TNC
connector.
#430-001725
Magnetic Mount Adapter
Magnetic mounting option for the Standard Dipole. RP-TNC connector.
430-002228
Non-Magnetic Dipole Mount
Plastic base extension mount for the Standard Dipole. RP-TNC connector.
#430-002552
5.2 dBi Omni Mag Mount
5.2 dBi Magnetic Mount antenna-High Gain Magnetic mount-Ideal for quick and temporary
systems. RP-TNC connector.
#430-002551
6 dBi Patch
High gain directional patch antenna for indoor/outdoor wall mounting. RP-TNC connector.
#430-003583
1 dBi Right Angle
Fixed rt. angle antenna for UC products. RP-SMA connector.
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900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
2.4 GHZ ANTENNAS
#430-001499
2.2 dBi Standard Dipole
Standard “Rubber Duck” omni-directional dipole. RP-TNC connector.
#430-001725
Magnetic Mount Adapter
Magnetic mounting option for the Standard Dipole. RP-TNC connector.
#430-001728
5.2 dBi Omni
High gain omni-directional antenna, ceiling mount, attaches to suspended ceiling grid w/
clamp. RP-TNC connector.
#430-001729
6 dBi Patch
High gain directional patch antenna for indoor/outdoor wall mounting. RP-TNC connector.
#430-001949
13.5 dBi Yagi
High gain directional antenna for indoor or outdoor mast mounting. RP-TNC connector.
430-002228
Non-Magnetic Dipole Mount
Plastic base extension mount for the Standard Dipole. RP-TNC connector.
#430-002506
5.2 dBi Omni
High gain omni-directional antenna for indoor or outdoor—mast mounting. RP-TNC
connector.
#430-002561
5.2 dBi Omni Ground Plane
High gain for mostly indoor / warehouse high ceiling application, has low vertical profile.
RP-TNC connector.
#430-002662
Articulating Mount
Optional mount for 13.5 Yagi. Adjustable both vertical and horizontal.
#430-003341
23 dBi Parabolic Grid Dish
Extended Range antenna for 4 - 10 miles. RP-TNC connector.
#430-003338
21 dBi Parabolic Solid Dish
Long Range antenna for 4 - 25 miles. RP-TNC connector.
#430-003449
1.9 dBi Right Angle Antenna.
Fixed rt. angle antenna for UC products. RP-SMA connector.
#430-003549
8.5 dBi Hemispherical Patch
High Gain directional patch for indoor / outdoor wall mounting. RP-TNC connector.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
21
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
$430-003625
1.9 dBi Straight Antenna.
Fixed straight antenna for UC products. RP-SMA connector.
#430-003677
12 dBi Omni
High gain outdoor mast mount. RP-TNC connector..
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
22
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
2.4 GHZ DIVERSITY ANTENNAS
#430-003213
5.2 dBi Pillar Mount Diversity Omni
Gain, Indoor Wall / Pillar mount diversity antenna. Has a separation of the Siamese coax of
10” at the RP-TNC connector end. Mounting arms provided to keep antenna 6” off of
mounting surface. Ergonomically Pleasing for retail / office. RP-TNC connectors.
#430-003342
2.2 dBi Diversity Dipole “Rabbit Ear”
LM / PC3000 antenna with 12” tethered extension. MMCX connectors.
#420-003351
2.2 dBi POS Diversity Dipole
Indoor mount for the 2.2 dBi dipole antennas.RP-TNC connector.
#430-003379
1 dBi Snap-on PC Card Diversity
For use on LM / PC3000 only. Ideal for Pen or Laptop PC. Discrete design. MMCX
connectors.
2.4 GHZ INTERNATIONAL ANTENNAS
#430-003194
2.2 dBi Omni
Gain omni-directional antenna, ceiling mount, attaches to suspended ceiling grid w/ clamp.
RP-TNC connectors.
#430-003195
3 dBi Patch
Gain directional patch antenna for indoor/outdoor wall mounting. RP-TNC connectors.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
23
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
900 MHz Antennas
Standard 1dBi Dipole - Fixed right angle for use with UC1000-X products. RP-SMA
connector.
Standard 2.2 dBi Dipole—A standard 2 dB “Rubber Duck” style dipole antenna which is
designed for use where extended coverage is not required. It attaches directly to the radio unit
and provides an omni-directional pattern for use in offices and/or small retail coverage areas.
RP-TNC connector.
Mag Mount Adapter— With this mount the standard dipole antenna can be located in a more
open area away from the radio unit for better antenna performance. The Magnetic Mount is
designed for indoor use, and it exhibits improved performance over the standard dipole
(attached directly to the radio unit) in a confined area.RP-TNC connector.
Non-Magnetic Dipole Mount -Plastic base extension mount for the Standard Dipole, 5 ft of
co-ax cable. Adhesive mount allows flexible mounting on all types of office / warehouse
devices. RP-TNC connector.
5.2 dBi Mag Mount Omni Designed for the environment where a temporary installation is
required, this antenna provides an omni-directional pattern and with 5.2 dBi gain, and it
provides more coverage than the standard “Rubber Duck” antenna. The strong magnetic base
allows for quick easy attachment to any steel object. DO NOT PLACE NEAR CRT, OR
HARD DRIVE!! RP-TNC connector.
5.2 dBi Mast Mount Omni —Designed for the industrial or large retail environment, this
antenna provides an omni-directional pattern, and it’s 5.2 dBi gain improves the signal for a
much larger coverage area. It is intended to be mounted to a mast and can be used indoors or
outdoors. RP-TNC connector.
6 dBi Yagi—Offering high gain in a directional pattern, this antenna is designed for specific
coverage areas and point-to-point links. It can be used indoors or outdoors and is intended for
mast mounting. This Yagi offers a coverage angle of approximately 70 degrees.RP-TNC
connector.
As the gain of a Yagi goes up, the distance of maximum gain increases, but the width of the
angle of coverage decreases.
6 dBi Patch Antenna A special type of antenna unique to data transmission is the Patch
Antenna. Patches work well and fit aesthetically into most work environments. Mechanically
they are small rectangles about 1/2 inch thick. They are designed to mount flat to a wall and
seem to disappear into the wall in most environments. The radiation pattern is in the shape of
a Hemisphere, as shown by the patterns above. A typical application would be for coverage
of an area where the transmitter is located on the side of the coverage area. Good for both
indoor and outdoor usage. RP-TNC connector.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
24
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
2.4GHZ ANTENNAS
Standard 1dBi Dipole Straight - Fixed straight for use with UC1000-X products. RP-SMA
connector.
Standard 1dBi Dipole Rt. Angle - Fixed right angle for use with UC1000-X products. RPSMA connector.
Standard 2.2 dBi Dipole —A standard 2 dBi “Rubber Duck” style dipole antenna which is
designed for use where extended coverage is not required. It attaches directly to the radio unit
and provides an omni-directional pattern for use in offices and/or small retail coverage areas.
RP-TNC connector.
Mag Mount Adapter— With this mount the standard dipole antenna can be located in a more
open area away from the radio unit for better antenna performance. The Magnetic Mount is
designed for indoor use, and it exhibits improved performance over the standard dipole
(attached directly to the radio unit) in a confined area. DO NOT PLACE NEAR CRT, OR
HARD DRIVE!! RP-TNC connector.
Non-Magnetic Dipole Mount
Plastic base extension mount for the Standard Dipole, 5 ft of co-ax cable. Adhesive mount
allows flexible mounting on all types of office / warehouse devices.RP-TNC connector.
5.2 dBi Ceiling Mount Omni —Designed for the retail environment, this antenna provides an
omni-directional pattern, and it’s 5.2 dBi gain improves the signal for a much larger coverage
area. It is intended to be mounted to a drop ceiling cross-member and is for indoor use only.
RP-TNC connector.
5.2 dBi Mast Mount Omni —Designed for the industrial or large retail environment, this
antenna provides an omni-directional pattern, and it’s 5.2 dBi gain improves the signal for a
much larger coverage area. It is intended to be mounted to a mast and can be used indoors or
outdoors. RP-TNC connector.
5.2 dBi Ground Plane Omni - Designed for a ceiling mount to create a large RF energy cell
below and around the antenna. Ideal for open areas such as warehouse or retail.RP-TNC
connector.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
25
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
6 dBi Patch - A special type of antenna unique to data transmission is the Patch Antenna.
Patches work well and fit aesthetically into most work environments. Mechanically they are
small rectangles about 1/2 inch thick. They are designed to mount flat to a wall and seem to
disappear into the wall in most environments. The radiation pattern is in the shape of a
Hemisphere, as shown by the patterns above. A typical application would be for coverage of
an area where the transmitter is located on the side of the coverage area. Good for both
indoor and outdoor usage. RP-TNC connector.
8.5 dBi Patch - This is a higher gain version of the above patch antenna. It has a E-Plane of
55 degrees and a H-plane of 60 degrees. RP-TNC connector.
12 dBi Omni - Ideal base antenna for multi-point bridge applications. Works with 13.5 Yagi,
parabolic dish and other Omnis. 40” in length, mounts to a standard pole. RP-TNC
connector.
13.5 dBi Yagi Offering high gain in a directional pattern, this antenna is designed for
specific coverage areas and point-to-point links. It can be used indoors or outdoors and is
intended for mast mounting. This Yagi offers a coverage angle of approximately 30 degrees.
RP-TNC connector.
21 dBi Parabolic Solid Dish - 21dbi gain, used between 4 - 25 miles in a point to point
application. Has a narrow RF pattern of 12.4 degrees. Reflector is 24”. Cable length is 24” of
RG-303/U with our RP-TNC connector. Antenna weight is 9 lb.RP-TNC connector.
23 dBi Parabolic Grid Dish - 23 dBi gain, used between 4 - 10 miles in a point to point
application. Has a RF beam width of 7.5 degrees. Grid reflector is 2 ft X 3 ft. Cable length is
24” of RG58 with our RP-TNC connector.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
26
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
2.4GHZ DIVERSITY ANTENNAS
1 dBi Snap-on PC Card Diversity - Compact antenna that mounts directly to the LM /
PC3000 PC radio. Ideal for use in a laptop PC when you don’t want a protruding antenna.
The antenna only adds .998” to the length on a type II PCMCIA card. Installed are 2 light
pipes that extend the LED’s from the radio. MMCX connectors.
2.2 dBi POS Diversity Dipole - Mount used to extend the standard 2.2 dBi “rubber duck”
antennas that ship with the AP3000-X series. 60” of cable with 2 MMEX connectors that have
a platform with a adhesive backing to raise the antennas.RP-TNC connectors.
2.2 dBi Diversity Dipole “Rabbit Ears” - Diversity antenna with tethered extension cable 12”
long, and 2 right angle MMCX plug connectors. This allows the antenna to get above the lid
of a laptop PC or other devices with a embedded LM / PC3000 radio.MMCX connectors.
5.2 dBi Pillar-Mount Diversity Omni - Cosmetic antenna ideal for retail or hospital
environment. Comes with 36” of white RG58 cable witha separation of Siamese co-ax of 10”
and our RP-TNC connectors. Has a tan cloth covering, in a 12 X 5 rectangle. Included are
two mounting brackets that will keep the antenna 6 inches off of the wall. RP-TNC
connectors.
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
27
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Antenna Physical Description
Standard Dipoles
2.4GHz and 900MHz
Omni Directional Ceiling Mount
5.2 dBi Gain 2.4GHz
Omni Directional Mast Mount
5.2 dBi Gain 2.4GHz and 900MHz
Omni Directional Magnetic Mount
5.2 dBi 900MHz
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
28
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Patch Antennas
2.4GHz and 900 MHz
High Gain Yagi
6 dBi Gain 900MHz
High Gain Yagi
13.5 dBi Gain 2.4GHz
13.5 Yagi Articulating Mount
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
29
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
23 dBi Parabolic Grid Dish
21 dBi Parabolic Solid Dish
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
30
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
Cables and Lightning Arrestors
#420-003346-020
20 ft Low Loss-Straight
20 ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 straight plug
and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed.
LOSS 1.00dB @900MHz
1.34dB @2.4GHz
#420-003346-100
100 ft Low Loss-Straight
100ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 straight
plug and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed.
LOSS 4.10dB @900MHz
6.70dB @2.4GHz
#420-001628
20 ft Low Loss-Right Angle
20 ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 Right angle
plug and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed RTNC connector installed.
LOSS 1.00dB @900MHz
1.34dB @2.4GHz
#420-001881
RTNC Conversion Cable
1 ft. of inter-connect cable with 1 RTNC
Plug and 1 standard TNC jack attached.
(see description in Types Of Connectors
above). For connection to the new style
radio unit and existing antennas.
#420-003346-050
50 ft Low Loss-Straight
50 ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 straight plug
and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed RTNC connector installed.
LOSS 2.00dB @900MHz
3.35dB @2.4GHz
#420-002537-018
18” Extender Cable
This 18” Bulkhead cable is designed to
mount through a metal enclosure to allow
the placement of the radio device inside the
enclosure and the antenna outside. The
cable comes with a RTNC plug for
attachment to the ARLAN® radio
equipment and a RTNC bulkhead jack for
attachment to the antenna.
#420-001629
50 ft Low Loss-Rt. Angle
50 ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 Right angle
plug and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed RTNC connector installed.
LOSS 2.00dB @900MHz
3.35dB @2.4GHz
#420-002537-060
60” Extender Cable
This 60” Bulkhead cable is identical to the
18” cable above except for length.
#420-003346-075
75 ft Low Loss-Straight
75 ft of Low Loss Cable with 1 straight plug
and 1 straight jack RTNC connector
installed.
LOSS 3.00dB @900MHz
5.03dB @2.4GHz
#430-003354
Lightning Arrestor
Provides lightning and related energy
surges at the antenna form reaching the
ARLAN® radio circuitry. Compatible with
both 900MHz and 2.4GHz products ,
ground ring included
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
31
900 MHz and 2.4 GHz Antenna Guide
900 Mhz Antenna Calculations
1. Enter Antenna gains in dBi (For dBd antennas, add 2.14 to get dBi, 0dBd = 2.14dBi)
2. Enter cable length- loss is calculated
3. Enter in appropriate datarate in Box
4. Misc. Loss is used to add in any splitters,extra cables etc.
5. REMEMBER These are THEORETICAL calculations.
6. LINE OF SITE IS REQUIRED!
900MHz Calculations
Enter in Data rate (860,680,344,213)------
860
82 (If FALSE, then datarate is incorrect!!)
Receiver Sensitivity (base on Datarate)
Antenna 1
Cable 1
Antenna 2
Cable 2
Misc. Max allowable Max. Distance with 10dB margin
Model
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi
Model
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi Loss Path Loss (dB)
Miles
Feet
Km
Yagi 8.2 dBi
8.14
50
2.05 Yagi 8.2 dBi
8.14
50
2.05
0
121.18
6.02
31761
9.77
Yagi 8.2 dBi
8.14
50
2.05 Omni 5.2 dBi
5.14
50
2.05
0
118.18
4.25
22458
6.91
Omni 5.2 dBdi
5.14
50
2.05 Omni 5.2 dBi
5.14
50
2.05
0
115.18
3.01
15880
4.89
Patch 6dBi
6
50
2.05 Patch 6dBi
6
50
2.05
0
116.9
3.67
19371
5.96
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
109
1.47
7777
2.39
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
109
1.47
7777
2.39
Path Loss Calc for 900= 36.57+(20*LOG(distance*915))
2.4 Ghz Antenna Calculations 354k - 2 Mpbs (Mbit)
Enter in Data rate (2000,1000,354)------
2000
82 (If FALSE, then datarate is incorrect!!)
Receiver Sensitivity (base on Datarate)
Antenna 1
Cable 1
Antenna 2
Cable 2
Misc. Max allowable Max. Distance with 10dB margin
Model
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi
Model
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi Loss Path Loss (dB)
Miles
Feet
Km
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35
0
141.3
23.03
121625
37.42
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Yagi 13.5dBi
13.5
50
3.35
0
131.8
7.69
40587
12.49
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Omni 11dBd
11
50
3.35
0
129.3
5.76
30406
9.36
Yagi 13.5dBi
Yagi 13.5dBi
Yagi 13.5dBi
13.5
13.5
13.5
20
20
20
1.34 Yagi 13.5dBi
1.34 Patch 6dBi
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
13.5
6
5.14
20
20
20
1.34
1.34
1.34
0
0
0
126.32
118.82
117.96
4.08
1.72
1.55
21550
9061
8204
6.63
2.79
2.52
6
6
20
20
1.34 Patch 6dBi
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
6
5.14
20
20
1.34
1.34
0
0
111.32
110.46
0.72
0.65
3810
3449
1.17
1.06
5.14
20
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
0
0
0
0
0
0
Path Loss Calc for 2.4 = 36.57+(20*LOG(distance*2442))
5.14
0
0
20
0
0
1.34
0
0
0
0
0
109.6
102
102
0.59
0.25
0.25
3123
1298
1298
0.96
0.40
0.40
Patch 6dBi
Patch 6dBi
Omni 5.2 dBi
2.4 Ghz Antenna Calculations 4 Mpbs (Mbit)
Enter in Data rate (4000,2000,1000)------
4000
75 (If FALSE, then datarate is incorrect!!)
Receiver Sensitivity (base on Datarate)
Antenna 1
Cable 1
Antenna 2
Model
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi
Model
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Parabolic Dish (Grid)
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Yagi 13.5dBi
Parabolic Dish (Grid)
23
50
3.35 Omni 11dBi
Yagi 13.5dBi
Yagi 13.5dBi
Yagi 13.5dBi
Patch 6dBi
Patch 6dBi
Omni 5.2 dBi
Cable 2
Misc.
Max allowable Max. Distance with 10dB margin
Gain dBi Length Loss dBi Loss Path Loss (dB)
Miles
Feet
Km
23
50
3.35
0
134.3
10.26
54178
16.67
13.5
50
3.35
0
124.8
3.42
18080
5.56
11
50
3.35
0
122.3
2.57
13544
4.17
13.5
13.5
13.5
20
20
20
1.34 Yagi 13.5dBi
1.34 Patch 6dBi
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
13.5
6
5.14
20
20
20
1.34
1.34
1.34
0
0
0
119.32
111.82
110.96
1.82
0.76
0.69
9600
4036
3654
2.95
1.24
1.12
6
6
20
20
1.34 Patch 6dBi
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
6
5.14
20
20
1.34
1.34
0
0
104.32
103.46
0.32
0.29
1697
1536
0.52
0.47
5.14
0
0
20
0
0
1.34 Omni 5.2 dBi
0
0
5.14
0
0
20
0
0
1.34
0
0
0
0
0
102.6
95
95
0.26
0.11
0.11
1391
578
578
0.43
0.18
0.18
P. O. Box 5292 • 367 Ghent Rd • Fairlawn, Ohio 44334-0292 • Telephone: (330) 664-7900 • Fax: (330) 664-7922
32